THE 2020 Gaelic football and hurling championships have been postponed – and don’t expect any play until July ‘at the earliest’.
In a statement released this evening, the GAA says that the inter-county championships have been postponed ‘until further clarity on the current situation is available’.
“However, it is the Association’s view that it is highly unlikely these will be rescheduled any time before the beginning of July, at the earliest,” the Association said.
On Friday, the Government announced an extension of the lockdown measures originally laid down at the end of March.
The restrictive measures are in place until May 5, but even with an easing of those measures, playing matches in full stadiums would remain some way off.
Donegal had been due to host Tyrone at Sean MacCumhaill Park on Sunday, May 17 in the Ulster SFC while the Donegal hurlers were gearing up for a Nicky Rackard Cup clash against Armagh.
The GAA said: “The GAA acknowledges last weekend’s Government announcement of the extension of current restrictions until May 5th and its impact on the scheduling of sporting events and working practices, and has factored the extension of the arrangements into its contingency planning.
“To that end, the Association can confirm that club activity remains suspended until May 5th.”
The GAA has reiterated its intentions to complete the 2020 Allianz Leagues ‘or at least those games that have a bearing on next year’s divisions, where possible’ and says that club and county games will be accommodated after the recommencement.
A Special Congress, to be held remotely, will take place this Friday to discuss some decision-making alterations to allow the authorities make changes to competition structures where necessary.
“In keeping with the approach of the Association since the start of this crisis, all of our decisions will be based on the advice of the medical professionals and the government,” the GAA said.
“Finally, the GAA would again like to thank our members and units for their support at this time and for continuing to adhere to the government guidelines.”
